murder rate in the city of richmond is at its lowest level since 2001. richmond has had 18 homicides this year. it was nearly three times that just three years ago. the contra costa times requires law enforcement and community efforts. they say it's made a difference. richmond has 190 police officers today. that's up from 150 in 2006. >>> and nurses set to begin a 24-hour strike this morning at hospitals. it is the latest in a series of short-term strikes by the california nurse's association. the strike will affect seven bay area center hospitals down in santa jose. all of the facilities plan to operate with replacement workers. leaders in management are at odds over benefits and staffing. the strike set to begin on this christmas eve in about an hour. >>> and even if it is a holiday tradition, the preyer air equality management district is asking people not to light wood burning fires or stoves. officials want to prevent a buildup of unhealthy air >> hope not. >> what about that bbd where you can just throw it in your tv? >> i like it. it's very clean.